Key takeaways:

• Philippine Vice President Sara Duterte faces impeachment following serious allegations against her.
• The House of Representatives successfully voted to forward the complaint to the Senate, marking a significant political rift with President Marcos.
• The Senate trial is expected to commence in June after Congress resumes.
• Duterte prepares her defense amid claims of political persecution from her opponents.

The impeachment of Philippine Vice President Sara Duterte moved closer to reality this week as the House of Representatives passed a resolution of impeachment against her on February 7. This action follows a petition supported by over 215 lawmakers, which exceeds the necessary threshold for the case to proceed to the Senate. The allegations against Duterte include plotting to assassinate President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and large-scale misuse of public funds, among other charges. The vice president and her supporters describe the impeachment as a politically motivated action against her.

House Secretary-General Reginald Velasco confirmed that articles of impeachment would be sent to the Senate, where a trial is scheduled to begin on June 2, when Congress returns from recess. Senate President Francis Escudero emphasized that while the senators cannot convene as an impeachment court before Congress reconvenes, careful preparations are being made to ensure the trial maintains credibility and integrity. He intends to avoid the political upheaval that accompanied the 2001 impeachment trial of former President Joseph Estrada, which led to mass protests and his ousting.

The impeachment complaints against Duterte reference her alleged roles in various scandals, including accusations of significant corruption related to the alleged misuse of 612.5 million pesos (approximately $10.5 million) in confidential funds. Other allegations include making threats against the president, his wife, and other officials. These claims have spurred a heated political debate, especially given the deteriorating relationship between Duterte and Marcos, who were once allies.

According to South China Morning Post, Duterte's family has publicly described the impeachment as "political persecution," with her brother, Representative Paolo Duterte, insisting the efforts to impeach her are desperate. Duterte herself has been preparing her defense and has not ruled out her father, former President Rodrigo Duterte, joining her legal team.

In response to questions about her future and the potential ramifications of a conviction, Sara Duterte expressed uncertainty about whether resignation will be considered but mentioned that they are still far from those decisions. She stated, “God save the Philippines,” highlighting the earnest concerns she has regarding the state of the nation amidst these turbulent political events.

As the trial approaches, the implications for Duterte and the political landscape in the Philippines remain profound. The allegations against her are serious and could significantly impact her potential ambitions, including a bid for the presidency in 2028. She previously ran alongside Marcos in the 2022 election, but their relationship has soured amidst these impeachment proceedings.

For detailed updates on this unfolding situation, see coverage from Al Jazeera.